The RSPCA has warned that the government’s ban on XL Bully dogs is failing to protect the public, with attacks and fatalities continuing despite thousands of suspected prohibited dogs being seized and hundreds euthanised.
Introduced in September 2023, the XL Bully ban outlawed the breeding, sale, advertising, and transfer of the breed. From February 2024, ownership without a valid exemption certificate became illegal under the Dangerous Dogs Act, which marks its 34th anniversary this year.
Figures from 19 police forces show that 1,035 suspected banned dogs were seized in 2024, with XL Bullies accounting for more than 65% of cases. The highest seizure numbers were reported in Leicestershire (177), Nottinghamshire (142), Thames Valley (134), Humberside (99), and Lincolnshire (52).
Nationally, the National Police Chiefs’ Council reports more than 4,500 XL Bullies seized since the ban began – prompting forces to expand kennel capacity by a third.
Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA’s Head of Companion Animals, criticised the legislation’s focus on appearance rather than behaviour, warning that many much-loved pets have been made illegal.
“The Dangerous Dogs Act hasn’t worked for 34 years. We need a fresh strategy focused on behaviour to better protect people and dogs,” she said.
In 2024, there were ten recorded human fatalities linked to dog attacks – the highest since records began in 1981 – alongside a rise in reports of out-of-control dogs. The RSPCA and police have called for reform prioritising responsible ownership, improved data collection, and licensing schemes to tackle irresponsible breeding and handling.
The charity continues to campaign for legislation that balances public safety with animal welfare, warning that without change, both people and dogs will remain at risk.
